For immediate release
September 22, 2016 –Earlier this afternoon, the Peace River School Division (PRSD) Board of Trustees celebrated the contributions of William Roy, Alberta Health Services Coordinator by presenting him with an Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) Zone One ‘Friends of Education Award at the ASBA Zone One Awards Banquet.’

The Friends of Education Award recognizes individuals or groups who have made a special contribution to education and student learning.

“William has been instrumental in the creation of a wellness policy and initiatives in our division” says PRSD Board Chair Darren Kuester. “William’s work is very important as we understand that in order for effective teaching and learning to take place, students need to be supported in their overall wellness. Therefore, the board adopted a policy to support wellness in our division and William has been here every step of the way to help us build the established practices currently in place.”

William’s work with PRSD began in 2014 when he joined the PRSD’s Wellness Committee to develop a wellness policy and he continues to be an active member of the committee. He also supports the sustainability of our wellness policy and initiatives by assisting with various grant and funding opportunities.

On a school level, William helped to develop and provide ongoing support to school-based wellness teams known as “School Wellness Action Team” (SWAT). SWAT teams are comprised of students and staff who organize wellness initiatives and events in their school community that are a reflection of the three priority areas of comprehensive school health: healthy eating, active living and positive social/emotional environments. William also works closely with principals, regularly attends school events and School Council meetings, and partners with organizations to support the health and wellness of our students.
In conjunction with William’s support, PRSD employs Youth Education Support Workers, a registered provisional Psychologist and Success Coaches, encourages healthy canteen and vending machine choices, provides students with leadership and mentorship opportunities and offers various wellness based presentations, groups and programs. Last year, the division purchased Tower Gardens for each school and a divisional set of yoga mats and snowshoes to enhance healthy eating, positive social/emotional environments and active living opportunities for schools.

“William is very deserving of this award and we are happy to celebrate the important contributions he has and continues to make that make such a positive difference in the lives of our students, staff and school communities” says Kuester. “Wellness is crucial to student success and we are grateful for the exceptional support William provides.”

William was recognized earlier this afternoon at the ASBA Zone One Fall General Meeting with nominees from other school boards in northern Alberta.